Eddie "passed away peacefully" at his home in California.

Eddie Mekka has sadly passed away, age 69. The iconic actor was best known for his role as Carmine in the '70s TV sitcom Laverne and Shirley, as well as starring in Dreamgirls alongside Beyoncé and Jennifer Hudson. He reportedly passed away peacefully at his home in Newhall, California. Th actor also made appearances in It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia and the 1992 classic A League Of Their Own, where he famously danced with popstar Madonna. He had previously earned a Tony Award nomination for his leading role in the 1975 Broadway musical The Lieutenant. His brother Warren Mekjian confirmed the news on Thursday. According to TMZ, friends and family became worried when they had not heard from Eddie in days and called police to check on him. His death is not being treated as suspicious and there is currently no evidence of foul play involved. Eddie's close friend Pat Benti asked that any inquiries into his passing “be withheld during his family’s time of grief". Announcing the death on Facebook, he wrote: "It is with deep regret that we share with you the passing of our beloved Eddie Mekka. Eddie passed away peacefully in his Newhall, California home on Saturday, November 27, 2021. "He was 69 years old. At this time, we do ask that all media inquiries be withheld during his family's time of grief and mourning. We welcome you to share your memories of Eddie and your condolences to his family on his fan page. Rest In Peace Eddie. We had some fun, my BCM Alumni."